Asam Laksa Air Itam Market @ Jalan Pasar, Penang

A visit to Penang is incomplete without a bowl of Asam Laksa. If you happen to visit the famous Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, do not miss out having a bowl of Penang Asam Laksa at the Air Itam wet market. Even if you are not keen on temple visiting, do get your way to this laksa stall if you are a big fan of asam laksa.

The stall has been in operation for more than 30 years and needless to say more, the business has been passed on from one generation to another. Throughout the years, it has been selling at the same spot, by the side of Air Itam market. When one mentioned Air Itam Asam Laksa, it got to be this stall that they were referring to.

Famous Air Itam Asam Laksa Stall

The surrounding ambiance might not be so welcoming, but you will eventually forget the unwelcoming surrounding, the moment your asam laksa is being served to you.

By the side of Air Itam wet market

Running a business is not an easy task, but with the help from family members, the task not only seems to be easier but enjoyable. You can always see them putting a smile on their face no matter how busy their hands are.

A family business for decades

The constantly boiling fish broth

A good asam laksa is best served when it's piping hot from the broth till the root of the thick rice noodles. To ensure such, you can actually see the uncle pouring in and out the broth on each bowl for a few times.

Pouring in and out the broth

They might be crowded most of the time, but you need not to wait long before your bowl of laksa is being served to you.

Air Itam Asam Laksa (RM 3)
The strong aroma of the herbs from the laksa can be scented even before your first mouth.

One of the best Asam Laksa in Penang
The broth is not only thick but is brimming with flavour. It is reasonably perked up with tamarind stock and perfectly sweetened with the drizzling of prawn paste. With the eventual aromatic lemon grass kicking in together with the spiciness of the chili, it really puzzled your taste bud with the awesomeness combination taste of sweet, sour, salty and spicy.

Just like many others, should a bowl of laksa is not enough for you, you can always take away.

You can opt to take away

Everyone has their preferred type of food and this is no exception to asam laksa. Some might say the taste has deteriorated throughout the years while some might say it is over rated. But as for me, I still find the taste as superb as when I had them the first time many years ago. Definitely one of my favourite asam laksa stall in Penang.

Asam Laksa: 8.5/10

Atmosphere: 1/10
Price: 7.5/10

Verdict: Arguably one of the best asam laksa in Penang with thick broth!

Asam Laksa Air Itam Market
Jalan Pasar (beside the Air Itam Wet Market)
11500, Air Itam
Penang
Malaysia
Business hours: 11am - 9pm daily